Tech giant Apple has confirmed layoffs of more than 600 employees following the termination of two major initiatives: the self-driving car project, known as Project Titan, and the development of in-house Micro-LED displays.
Close to 600 employees from the Project Titan (Apple Car) and MicroLED development teams bore the brunt of the layoffs. The MicroLED display team, which had been a focal point of Apple’s endeavors following its acquisition of LuxVue Technology in 2014, faced substantial impacts. Challenges in production led to the cancellation of MicroLED displays for the Apple Watch earlier this year, which resulted in the recent layoffs.
Project Titan, Apple’s ambitious self-driving car project, also suffered significant cuts. Despite reportedly having a workforce of around 2,000 employees dedicated to the project, it was ultimately shelved last month. The decision came amid internal indecision among executives regarding the project’s direction and concerns over escalating costs. Some employees from the Project Titan team have been absorbed into other teams within Apple, particularly those focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) development, while others have been asked to leave the company.
Furthermore, the layoffs extended to Siri development, as seen in notices filed in San Diego. These notices align with reports of Apple closing a Siri data operations office. Employees affected by these closures were offered relocation options to Austin, Texas, which also signaled a shift in Apple’s operational focus.
These layoffs mark one of the largest restructuring efforts by Apple since the peak of the pandemic. The company’s decision to streamline its projects reflects a strategic shift towards prioritizing AI development, as it seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
While Apple has declined to comment on the exact number of employees affected by the layoffs, speculation suggests that a majority of those impacted were involved in the now-defunct Project Titan and MicroLED development initiatives. However, some former employees from these projects are reportedly being redirected to support the company’s ongoing AI projects.
Apple’s recent actions come amidst ongoing legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice alleging anti-competitive practices in the smartphone market. Despite these hurdles, Apple remains focused on innovation, with reports indicating exploration into the development of “home robotics” products, further diversifying its product portfolio.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, Apple’s strategic realignment highlights its aim to stay at the forefront of technological innovation while adapting to changing market dynamics.
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(via)
